Anambra Police Record Crime Reduction, Rescue 35 Kidnap Victims in 2025 — CP Orutugu
Security
By Tony Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has recorded a significant reduction in violent crimes, including kidnapping, armed robbery and cult-related activities, during the year 2025, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has said.
Addressing journalists at the Police Command Headquarters in Awka on Tuesday, December 17, 2025, CP Orutugu said the achievements were made possible through proactive policing, intelligence-led operations, improved response times, enhanced visibility patrols and strong community partnerships.
He noted that despite fluctuations in crime patterns influenced by socio-economic challenges and evolving security dynamics nationwide, the Command disrupted several kidnapping syndicates across multiple local government areas, dismantled criminal hideouts and black spots, strengthened community policing structures, and improved inter-agency collaboration.
According to him, these efforts ensured incident-free major events in the state, including the official visit of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the conduct of the governorship and local government elections, and the gradual return of normal social life in Ihiala, where social events are now held without intimidation.
CP Orutugu disclosed that through joint operations involving the Police, DSS, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, NSCDC, Nigeria Immigration Service, Agunaechemba and other security operatives, the Command rescued 35 kidnapped victims, arrested over 300 suspects linked to serious crimes, recovered more than 2,000 arms and ammunition, including explosives, and retrieved over 60 stolen vehicles and motorcycles.
He added that several cases have been successfully prosecuted, leading to convictions.
He highlighted the re-arrest of suspects, including the gang leader, involved in the killing of the late Hon. Justice Azuka in Onitsha, as well as the arrest of suspects responsible for the murder of three Cameroonian nationals, whose bodies were also recovered.
The Commissioner acknowledged challenges such as evolving criminal tactics and occasional public resistance or misinformation, but said these would inform improved strategies in the coming year.
As the festive season approaches, CP Orutugu announced the deployment of robust security measures and warned that the use of knock-out substances and other social explosives remains prohibited.
He urged residents to remain vigilant, obey traffic regulations, secure their homes, and use only designated motor parks.
He expressed appreciation to the Anambra State Government, sister security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, community groups, the media, and Ndi Anambra, particularly for their support in upgrading several police facilities across the state.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to a safer Anambra State and wished residents a peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
